Westgate Oxford is set to celebrate reading and community engagement with a free book giveaway ahead of World Book Night.
In partnership with Oxford Westgate Library, the event will take place on Saturday 18 April from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Visitors will be able to pick up complimentary books from a curated selection of fiction and non-fiction titles, catering to readers of all ages.
The initiative aims to encourage people to reconnect with reading during the National Year of Reading and to help them prepare for World Book Night on Thursday 23 April, as well as the #ReadingHour campaign taking place from 7.00pm to 8.00pm that evening.
Books will be available at the centre’s Guest Experience pod, located next to JD Sports, and will include a wide range of genres, from popular novels to informative non-fiction works. A dedicated section for children’s books will also be provided, ensuring younger readers are included in the celebration.
Clare Martin, Acting Centre Director, commented:
“We are thrilled to be working alongside Oxford Westgate Library to offer our guests a selection of free books to choose from ahead of World Book Night and #ReadingHour.
“With these fun and inspiring giveaways alongside so many areas to relax in the centre, like our ART and PLAY installation, we want to offer our local community time and space to connect while discovering a great new read.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to highlight the essential role the library plays in our city, and we’re proud to be able to help bridge the gap between our guests and the incredible local services right on our doorstep.”
Darius Welsh, Assistant Library Manager at Oxford Westgate Library, added:
“Rediscover the joy of reading this World Book Night by collecting a free book from our giveaway with Westgate Oxford. Whether you’re looking to spark inspiration or dive deeper into genres you already love, there is a story waiting for you. If you’re already a book lover, feel free to take a book for a friend, because inspiration is meant to be shared, and reading makes life better.”
Adding a family-friendly element to the day, Westgate Oxford has also partnered with Make a Smile, which supports children with illnesses or disabilities, to host costumed princess appearances from 10.00am to 12.00pm.
The event is designed to bring the community together while promoting literacy, creativity and wellbeing.
